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Big cities, for instance, are notorious for hectic traffic. Traffic rules aren’t strictly enforced – this doesn’t mean you’re immune to being pulled over, but as a pedestrian, stay vigilant. If you’re in a vehicle, fasten your seatbelt, and don’t expect a personal bubble on public transport during peak hours or in heavy traffic. Also, keep a tight grip on your belongings to avoid losing them or falling prey to pickpockets in crowded spots.

You’ll find that most locals are willing to assist, with younger adults often more eager and likely to speak English or other languages.

As a Pedestrian

stay vigilant.

Transportation Cards

In major cities, get a transportation card. You can purchase these at kiosks near bus stops, metro stations, or ferry docks. They’re not pricey (around 100TL), and you can sell them back at the end of your trip. For inner-city buses, metros, metrobuses, ferries, and trams, fares are about 10 lira. Remember to load your card with enough money for your journeys.

Some bus or ferry trips might cost more, or the card might not be accepted, so it’s wise to have some cash handy just in case.

The Dolmuş

The dolmuş is akin to a shared public taxi with set routes like buses, but they’re smaller, quicker, and stop more frequently. You can’t use your transportation card here; it’s an ideal place to spend your small change. They’re usually slightly cheaper than regular buses. Spotting one is easy: they’re mini-buses with location names all over them and a sliding door. They’re not uniform in color. To catch one, wait at a bus stop or signal from the roadside by sticking out your arm at a downward angle. Tell the driver your destination and ask “ne kadar” (how much). Pay directly or pass the money forward by asking someone to “uzatırmısınız lütfen” (could you please pass this up). You’ll get change back if needed.

A tip in Turkey: try to pay with exact change, or close to it. Getting change can be a hassle, and you might hear “no change, sorry” if you overpay significantly.

Inter-City Travel

For inter-city trips, planes and buses are both convenient and efficient. Last-minute tickets are usually available except during national holidays or big events. Buses are clean and might offer snacks, drinks, or meals, depending on the journey’s length and the operator. Tickets can be bought online or at the city’s otogar (bus station) or other ticket offices.

For budget flights, Pegasus is your go-to, akin to Spirit in the U.S. or RyanAir in Europe. They offer great deals, but you get what you pay for.

Airport Transfers in Istanbul

The simplest way to and from Istanbul’s airport, location depending, is the HavaIST bus. It’s frequent, comfy, and direct – ideal for airport-city transfers. Check their website for details; as of 2023, you can pay online with a credit card.

The metro is another option if you’re not weighed down by luggage. It takes longer but gets the job done.

Public buses are slower and stop frequently.

For private transport, taxis are always an option at the airport. Ensure it’s a legit taxi (look for ‘taksi’ on the vehicle and a meter inside). Agreeing on a fare beforehand is smart, as airport taxis can overcharge foreigners. To give you an idea, a large taxi from the city center to Istanbul airport cost me 900 lira in March 2023 for a 40-minute ride with no traffic.

BiTaksi, similar to Uber, works well, but finding a taxi can be hit or miss. Note the taxi shift changes around 3pm and 3am, when they’re scarce.

Need more info? Shoot us a message here, or check out our Travel Blueprint containing a more comprehensive run-down of everything transportation related.